The opposition Movement for Democratic Change has called for an inclusive "transitional authority" to mark a break with his 37-year rule and bring in reforms to pave the way for free elections next year.

There are fears that President Mnangagwa, who is associated with some of worst atrocities committed under the ruling Zanu-PF party since independence in 1980, will not usher in the democratic reforms that many in Zimbabwe are hoping for.

Emmerson Mnangagwa was sworn in to replace Mr Mugabe as president on Friday.

Mr Mnangagwa, long a close ally of Mr Mugabe, was sacked earlier this month, triggering the political crisis that eventually saw his boss's downfall.

Mr Mugabe and his wife, Grace, remain at their house in the capital, Harare, and have no plans to leave the country.

The military takeover came in response to Mr Mugabe's decision to position his wife as his successor and sack Mr Mnangagwa from the vice-presidency.